Rich in Catholic culture, inspiring activities and African sunshine, it’s no surprise that Tenerife is one of the world’s most important tourist destinations.
Over the years the island – the largest in the Canaries – has built up a reputation as a low budget sunspot. However, it’s not simply easy-to-book package holidays that are on offer here, the island also caters for luxury travelers too.
Here are seven reasons to pack up your things and set off for Tenerife:
The Beaches
Tenerife’s location off the northwest coast of Africa gives the island a distinctly exotic feel. The island is home to many exotic beaches too, from the lively Playa Jardin to the beautifully secluded Playa Bollullo. Many people enjoy the novelty of Tenerife’s black volcanic sand beaches; Playa de las Arenas and Playa Socorro are two of the best.
Luxury Hotels and resorts
Tenerife is no stranger to 5-star service and luxury accommodation. Hotels like the Ritz-Carlton, Abama and the Hotel Gran Melia Palacio de Isora show that Tenerife can compete with the best luxury destinations around the world. The former offers well-appointed suites with stunning sea views, world class sports facilities and a two Michelin starred restaurant.
Winter Sun
Tenerife is sometimes called ‘the island of Eternal Spring’ in honour of its year-round warm climate. The island enjoys more hours of sun than any other part of Spain, so it’s a great location for some indulgent winter sunshine. Feel like dropping everything this winter and lying on a beach someplace? Tenerife is ready for you…
Natural Wonders
With plenty of dramatic scenery on offer, Tenerife is not just a beach destination. The island is home to Mount Teide – the highest mountain in Spain – and the surrounding Teide National Park. If you are a sucker for natural history and geology then you should also head to Los Gigantes, a stretch of cliffs spanning six miles along the island’s west coast.
Golf
Fairweather golfers will be right at home on Tenerife’s sunny links courses. With challenging holes and jaw-dropping scenery on offer, there will be something for high and low handicappers alike. The island has nine courses – if you are looking for a stay and play vacation head for the Abama Golf & Spa Resort. The course here has hosted two European Tour events.
Diving
The Las Galletas area boasts many popular diving sites for beginners and experts alike. La Condesito is a spectacular site that has a movie-like quality. It is the wreck of a Spanish boat that sank in 1973 with its hull and engine room still intact. Colourful shoals of sardines swim throughout the structure and you might even spot a dolphin. Experienced divers may want to explore the mysterious Cuevo del Palm-Mar, a cavern that has fascinated divers since the famous Jacques Cousteau.
Nightlife
Tenerife might not be as well-known for nightlife as its Balearic counterparts, but it can still show you a great time. For a wild night on the tiles head for Veronica’s Strip in the Playa de las Americas resort. There are also many top restaurants on the island if you are looking for a more restrained evening. Restaurante La Vieja in the fishing village of La Caleta specialises in the freshest seafood the island has to offer, and is definitely worth the visit.
Main image at the top of the article: The IBEROSTAR Grand Mencey in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
